Tree Removal & Heritage Trees: Bellingham vs Quincy
How do tree removal & heritage trees rules compare between Bellingham, MA and Quincy, MA?
Bellingham and Quincy have similar restriction levels.
Bellingham, MA
Norfolk County
Tree removal in Norfolk County is governed by state law (MGL c. 87 for public trees) and municipal bylaws. Public shade trees require a Tree Warden permit. Many Norfolk County towns also require permits to remove large private trees.
View full Bellingham rules →Quincy, MA
Norfolk County
Quincy does not have a widely published private-property tree removal permit requirement beyond cases involving wetlands, site plans, or heritage-designated trees. Removal near wetlands requires Conservation Commission review under MGL c. 131 §40.
View full Quincy rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Bellingham | Quincy |
|---|---|---|
| Public Trees | Tree Warden permit + public hearing (MGL c. 87) | - |
| Private Trees | Check town preservation bylaw (diameter trigger varies) | - |
| Fine (Public Tree) | Up to $500 per tree (MGL c. 87 §3) | - |
| County Rule? | None — state law and municipal bylaws | - |
| Replacement | Some towns require replacement planting | - |
| Permit for Typical Removal? | - | No general permit required |
| Near Wetlands | - | Notice of Intent required — Conservation Commission |
| State Law | - | MGL c. 131 §40 |
| Contact | - | Quincy Conservation Commission |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Bellingham FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Norfolk County?
Tree removal in Norfolk County is governed by state law (MGL c. 87 for public trees) and municipal bylaws. Public shade trees require a Tree Warden permit. Many Norfolk County towns also require permits to remove large private trees.
What are the tree removal rules in Norfolk County?
Public Trees: Tree Warden permit + public hearing (MGL c. 87). Private Trees: Check town preservation bylaw (diameter trigger varies). Fine (Public Tree): Up to $500 per tree (MGL c. 87 §3). County Rule?: None — state law and municipal bylaws.
Quincy FAQ
Do I need a permit to cut down a tree in Quincy?
Quincy does not have a widely published private-property tree removal permit requirement beyond cases involving wetlands, site plans, or heritage-designated trees. Removal near wetlands requires Conservation Commission review under MGL c. 131 §40.
What are the tree removal rules in Quincy?
Permit for Typical Removal?: No general permit required. Near Wetlands: Notice of Intent required — Conservation Commission. State Law: MGL c. 131 §40. Contact: Quincy Conservation Commission.
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